It is probably one of the most confusing aspects of web design that causes the majority of newbies many "head scratching" moments. Learning how to set the DNS settings for your new website can really leave you feeling stumped. It seems so technical in nature, yet when you know how to do it, it really just becomes a routine procedure that you end up being able to do with one arm tied behind your back.

Like many things in life, its easy when you know how but that comment offers no consolation to newbies who are pulling there hair out over this very topic. What is required is a very easy to follow step by step tutorial that simplistically guides newbies through the whole process of how to set the DNS settings for their new website.

I remember the excitement I felt when, after days of confusion, I was able to eventually figure out how to set the DNS settings of my new website. This was the final stage required to actually get my own little piece of Internet real estate up and running. Something I could see, touch, feel and interact with. More to the point, something that my potential website visitors could interact with.

What are the DNS settings?

Before we go any further, I realize that you may not even know what the DNS settings are (hope I am not insulting your intelligence) so I will explain. DNS stands for Domain Name Server. This is the coded name that enables your domain to point to the correct dedicated server. You see your website files and domain need to be able to communicate with each other and it is the setting of the DNS that makes this possible.

When you get a domain name from a web host/domain registrar you will be required to enter the DNS settings that are offered to you from wherever you get hosting from. You may opt for paid hosting although you can get hosting on a complimentary basis with various packages and deals.

As a general rule of thumb, there are 2 DNS settings that you need to configure before your website goes live. The Primary DNS and the Secondary DNS. These settings will look something like this but will vary from one server to another:

Domain Name Propagation

Once you have successfully learned how set the DNS settings for your new website and configured them you will then have to wait for your website to propagate. Propagation can take anywhere from between 1 hour to 48 hours. It all depends on numerous factors but the longest I have ever waited is 2 hours and I have over 10 live websites.

One thing is for sure, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the blank canvass of your new website after your website DNS settings have propagated. The creative part of you can then get to work on all the design aspects of your new website and start building a website that engages your target audience for many years to come.